Dilemma, an innovative public health scientific animation for the youth, France, 2022

Abstract

Abstract Background The spread of disinformation and institutions distrust increases individuals difficulty to adhere to public health recommendations. How citizens can critically appraise health information is a major public health matter and a need to favor health democracy. In this field, to both enhance curiosity and critical thinking, young people represent a population with specific needs for innovative approaches. Objectives To provide 15-24y people a space for experimentation and discussion on public health concepts, a multidisciplinary experts team created the “Dilemma” scientific animation that uses a playful approach. Trained young facilitators guide participants through four games (on proportions, risk/protective factors, scientific estimation, benefit/risk ratio). We assessed the program using mixed method (self-questionnaires; focus groups) to answer the following questions: can the approach generate curiosity and participation among young people? Is it effective in improving health literacy and confidence in control over one's own well-being? Results Dilemma was launched in a French region in Nov 2022 targeting high-school students; preliminary results are presented for 67 participants from a Bordeaux technical high school (extended results are awaiting). Of these, 76% were satisfied, 82% felt they improved their critical thinking skills and 79% their curiosity. Facilitators’ fun and friendly nature was an important aspect in participants’ satisfaction. However, they reported difficulties in remembering the messages behind the games and asked for more calm and shorter texts. No effect was found on health literacy or internal locus of control. Conclusions Dilemma shown promising results on how science animations on public health could interest young people. It should develop more games and closer collaboration with school teachers to improve its effectiveness. Fun aspects and peer support needs to be considered for future actions. Key messages • The scientific public health animation Dilemma shows promising results in increasing curiosity and critical thinking of the youth. • Using playful scenarios could contribute to favor health democracy.